Ask the Insider: Edition Seven

Ask the Insider: Edition Seven

Today's question is from Christy Jacobs Blackman,who asks: "Do you think Christian Wilhelmssons arrival will change the dynamics of the team? In what ways?"

The acquisition of Christian “Chippen” Wilhelmsson not only changes the offensive dimensions for the LA Galaxy, but provides the club with their first true wide threat since the days of Cobi Jones.

Galaxy supporters got a taste of this during last Friday’s 2-0 victory over the Colorado Rapids as Wilhelmsson showed not just a willingness to create going forward, but a defensive ability that could serve well with overlapping full backs Todd Dunivant and Sean Franklin. Throughout the match with Colorado, Wilhelmsson’s integration into the Galaxy offense could be seen with each passing minute as he worked out a few early kinks—mostly thanks to a halftime conversation with Franklin---and ultimately scored his first goal in MLS during his 61 minute stint.

But perhaps, where the Swede will be most valuable is in his ability to play at a high level on both the right and left flanks, which provides a new dimension to the Galaxy attack. This versatility allows head coach Bruce Arena to change the point of attack when necessary and use Wilhelmsson’s speed and dribbling ability to target opposition full backs and provide pressure that could lead to scoring chances.

The benefits of Wilhelmsson’s arrival are not limited to matches, however, as he is expected to become a key figure in the Galaxy locker room. With experience in many of the top leagues in Europe, Wilhelmsson’s will be able to provide valuable knowledge to a number of LA’s promising youngsters, most specifically winger Hector Jimenez. Although the arrival of Wilhelmsson may mean fewer minutes for Jimenez, with the Swedish International serving as his mentor, it could further expand Jimenez’s potential.

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Thanks Christy, you can get your tickets by e-mailing socialmedia@lagalaxy.com. For everyone else, remember to leave your questions on the LA Galaxy Facebook page following the club's next match against the Puerto Rico Islanders on September 19th for the chance to have your question featured and win tickets to an upcoming Galaxy game.